Tuscany marks world’s first abolition of death penalty

On November 30, 1786, the Grand Duchy of Tuscany became the first state in the world to abolish the death penalty. The reform, enacted by Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo of Habsburg-Lorraine, also ended the use of torture, establishing a landmark in the global history of justice and human rights.

Every year, the region celebrates this decision with the Festa della Toscana, a day dedicated to peace, human dignity and the rule of law. The 2025 edition, themed “Tuscany, a bridge for peace,” includes ceremonies, concerts, exhibitions and school events across the region.

Pietro Leopoldo, born in Vienna in 1747, was the son of Empress Maria Theresa of Austria and Francis Stephen of Lorraine. When he took over the government of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany in 1765, he inherited a small but dynamic state that had long been influenced by Enlightenment ideas. Unlike many rulers of his time, he combined intellectual curiosity with a strong sense of public duty, favouring practical reforms over courtly splendour.

He promoted education, supported scientific study and encouraged agricultural innovation. His policies aimed to reduce poverty and improve living conditions for the rural population. He reorganised local administration to make it more efficient and transparent, simplified the tax system and sought to balance the relationship between the Church and the State, reducing clerical privileges in favour of a more secular government.

These efforts culminated in the new penal code of 1786, which removed the death penalty and banned torture. The text reflected the principles of reason and humanity promoted by Enlightenment thinkers such as Cesare Beccaria, whose ideas had inspired legal reformers across Europe. Tuscany thus became a model for progressive governance and a reference point for modern legal systems.

This year’s celebration also commemorates 260 years since his accession to the throne — a reminder of the Grand Duke’s enduring legacy. His belief that justice should serve humanity rather than vengeance remains central to Tuscany’s civic identity and continues to resonate worldwide.

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